Author Topic: Starter Motor Problems... (Read 3424 times)

interfuse · « **on:** October 21, 2005, 12:10:02 AM »

The second last time I tried to start my bike, the starter motor was having troubles turning the engine over. Finnally the engine caught and I was on my way. After the engine started I could re-start with no problems.

This time I tried to start and the starter motor just made a sound and wouldn't turn over. I checked the battery and it was fully charged.

The problem started after driving though a small hail storm. All sumer the starter motor has been strong. Then out of no where it died as soon as the weather got cold.

I'm hoping that there's corosion on the connectors to the starter motor, but I haven't had a chance to check.

If the starter motor is dead can it be rebuilt? Is there anything I can do to check before I send it off to someone or buying a new starter?

Red01 · « **Reply #1 on:** October 21, 2005, 01:21:33 AM »

B4, right? Do they have a starter clutch like the 600/1200?

What kind of sound is the starter making?

interfuse · « **Reply #2 on:** October 21, 2005, 02:06:47 PM »

Yep its a 400. As far as a starter motor clutch -- the service manual doesn't mention anything about it.

The starter relay clicks, then starter makes "wrrrrrrrrrr" type of sound (kind of like it would normally only 100 times slower). But it doesn't have enough torque to turn the engine.

Maniac · « **Reply #3 on:** October 21, 2005, 02:12:43 PM »

Try checking the electrical connections on the starter motor and relay, it's possible they have corrosion on them.

Red01 · « **Reply #4 on:** October 21, 2005, 09:07:04 PM »

Even if you had one, it probably wouldn't show in that pic.
On the 600/1200, there's a small gear on the end of the starter and it engages a large gear on the crank. The starter clutch is part of that large gear. On the bigger motors, the nut that hold it on the crank can come loose and the bike won't start.

interfuse · « **Reply #5 on:** October 28, 2005, 12:21:37 AM »

I ended up taking the starter motor apart and cleaning it. What a pain in the arse. There was a fair bit of carbon build up everywhere and the commutator was dirty. I've bench tested it and it seems to be working. Hopefully it'll produce enough torque to start the bike.

Now that I know tricks to putting the starter back togther I could probably do it faster (sooo many springs, and getting the line markings lined up is key!).